Thomas Kwok Shiu Lim

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas Kwok Shiu Lim on May 9, 2025 at the age of 90 after a long and courageous battle with prostate cancer. He was the beloved husband of Laura Lim, whom he married when he was 30. They shared a deep and lasting bond built on respect, laughter, travel, family, and enduring love.

Thomas' memory will live on through his loving wife of nearly 60 years, Laura; sons Kirb (Heather), Kevin, Alvis, Darryl (Akiko) and only daughter Cheryl (David); grandchildren (starting from the oldest): Kentaro, Calleigh, Kiera, Hanna, and Zoe; sister Kam Lai; along with numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by his father, Lim Fook, mother, Lim Lee Yee Tai, sister, May Ha, brother Kwok Yu, sister-in-law and nephew, Stephen Lam.

Thomas was born on March 27, 1935, at Gim Hung Lee in Toisan, Guangdong, China, and immigrated to Vancouver in 1950 at a young age, attending Strathcona School in the heart of Chinatown, Vancouver BC.

In 1962, Thomas was introduced to his wife and soulmate, Laura, when she was only 15 years old. They were soon engaged and promised to marry after she graduated from Eric Hamber Secondary School. They wed in November 1965. After six months, Thomas and his new bride moved briefly to Prince Rupert, BC, and welcomed two sons, Kirb in 1966 and Kevin in 1968. Thomas had a close-knit community of friends in Prince Rupert, as many of them worked at Prince Rupert's pulp mill. As a Chinese immigrant, there were few decent paying labourer jobs available. Though Prince Rupert was a thriving little town, Thomas decided to quit his job, leave the little town, and start a family in Vancouver. They ended up finding a quaint little home in North Burnaby.

Thomas then expressed an interest in Culinary Arts and attended school at British Columbia Vocational School in Burnaby to obtain his chef trade certificate in October 1970. After completing his training, he ended up working for the Arbutus Club in Vancouver as the Executive Chef. He and Laura welcomed two more sons, Alvis in 1974, Darryl in 1977, and a baby girl, Cheryl, in 1979. After working at the Arbutus Club, he wanted to be a self-employed businessman, owning Café Terrace in a business park in North Vancouver in 1986, during Expo 86. Being an entrepreneur had many challenges, but he was able to experiment with different types of food. One of his specialties was cooking French cuisine. After selling Café Terrace, a business he ran for nine years, he worked for CLS Catering for Cathay Pacific Airlines until his retirement in 2000, at the age of 65.

Thomas was a member of the BC Chefs Association and enjoyed gathering at events with his family. He was also an active member of the Lim's Chinese Benevolent Association. For a number of years, he served as one of the Vice Presidents and regularly attended the Association’s functions, annual luncheons, and dinners. He was hardworking and would always lend a helping hand to others. In his retirement, he enjoyed exercising and walking, especially in support of the Prostate Cancer “Do it for Dad” annual event. In 1996, he became fond of ballroom dancing and joined as a member of the Legion and met friends through their dancing activities. He also enjoyed travelling and spending time with his family and friends. One of his most memorable vacations was with his family in October 2023, embarking on a cruise from Vancouver to San Francisco and Los Angeles.

Thomas will always be remembered for his kindness, sharp dressing, and gentle, caring nature. His infectious smile, quiet wisdom, and warm personality also left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

A man of generosity, Thomas was always eager to share what he loved most whether it was his delicious homemade cakes or his legendary BBQ meats, prepared with great care and enjoyed by friends and family alike. His easy-going spirit and deep appreciation for life were contagious, and he made it his mission to bring people together through good food and joyful moments.

Thomas' legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were touched by his warmth, his love, and his enduring desire to make others feel valued and appreciated. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to bring comfort and inspire those who were lucky enough to know him.

The family extends their sincerest gratitude to the doctors, nurses, staff, and wonderful care aids at Burnaby Hospital, BC Cancer Agency, and St. Michael's Care Centre for their patient, kind and compassionate care.

We thank you for the outpouring of love and support for the family. In his memory, please consider making a donation to the BC Cancer Foundation or St. Michael's Care Centre in Burnaby.